The Lufthansa cancellation policy is designed to offer flexibility and convenience for passengers needing to change or cancel their travel plans. Lufthansa, Germany’s largest airline, provides a structured cancellation system that varies depending on the type of ticket purchased, the route, and the fare conditions. Understanding the policy before booking or canceling a flight is essential to avoid unnecessary fees or confusion. One of the key features of Lufthansa’s cancellation policy is that passengers can cancel their booking within 24 hours of purchase without any penalty, as long as the ticket was booked at least 7 days before departure. This 24-hour risk-free cancellation rule applies to all fare types and provides travelers with peace of mind in case they need to revise their plans shortly after booking.
For cancellations beyond the 24-hour window, Lufthansa’s policy depends on the fare class. Refundable tickets, typically associated with Business or First Class and some Economy Flex fares, allow for full or partial refunds without high cancellation fees. These tickets can usually be canceled online through the My Bookings section on the official Lufthansa website. The refund, if applicable, is processed back to the original form of payment and typically takes 7 to 10 business days. However, non-refundable tickets, such as Economy Light or certain discounted fares, are more restrictive. These fares may not allow cancellation for a refund unless the passenger qualifies under exceptional conditions, such as a schedule change or medical emergency, and even then, documentation may be required.
In cases where the flight is canceled by Lufthansa, passengers are eligible for a full refund or can opt for a rebooking at no extra charge. This policy applies regardless of the fare type. Passengers are notified via email or SMS, and instructions for claiming a refund or changing the itinerary are included in the notification. Additionally, if there is a significant change in the flight schedule, such as a long delay or routing adjustment, Lufthansa usually offers the option to cancel the ticket for a full refund or to reschedule the flight at no extra cost.
For travelers who booked using Miles & More points or award tickets, cancellations may also be permitted depending on the fare rules. Miles can often be redeposited into the member’s account, although a small service fee might apply.
To cancel a Lufthansa flight, passengers can use the airline’s website, mobile app, or contact Lufthansa customer service directly. In some cases, especially for complex bookings or special requests, calling Lufthansa or visiting a ticket office may be necessary. It's also important to note that if a ticket was purchased through a third-party travel agency, cancellations must typically be processed through that agency, not directly with the airline.
Overall, the Lufthansa cancellation policy is fair and transparent, offering reasonable flexibility for both refundable and non-refundable fares. For the most seamless experience, travelers should review fare rules carefully before booking and consider choosing more flexible fare classes if there’s a chance they may need to change or cancel their travel plans.